A Qualitative Study on the Motivators, Barriers and Supports to Participation in a Pediatric Produce Prescription Program in Hawai‘i

Top Things to Know

Enjoyment of produce and financial support were significant motivators for participation.

Challenges included voucher use difficulties and conflicting schedules, and ease of voucher use and positive vendor interactions facilitated participation.

Highlights the importance of culturally tailored programs to effectively engage all communities.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study investigated the motivators, barriers, and supports for participation in a pediatric produce prescription program among Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander families in Hawai‘i. Conducted through semi-structured interviews with 25 participants, the study found that key motivators included enjoyment of produce, child support, financial support, and positive family impacts. Barriers included difficulties using vouchers, conflicting schedules, and concerns with online markets. Supports for participation were ease of voucher use, program convenience, health center endorsement, and positive interactions with farmers’ market vendors.